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Mechanical Engineering Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Terrestrial Energy

Mechanical Engineering Manager

Bryan, TX · On-site

$85K - $117K/yr

... R&D, product management and business development areas at our Charlotte, North Carolina ... The experienced Mechanical Engineering Manager , reporting to the Engineering Director, will ...

Terrestrial Energy

Mechanical Engineering Manager

Bryan, TX · On-site

$85K - $117K/yr

... R&D, product management and business development areas at our Charlotte, North Carolina ... The experienced Mechanical Engineering Manager, reporting to the Engineering Director, will ...

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Mechanical Engineering Research information

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$45.5K

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$166.5K

How much do mechanical engineering research jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering research in the United States is $102,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is mechanical engineering research?

Mechanical engineering research involves the systematic investigation and development of new technologies, materials, processes, or methods within the field of mechanical engineering. Researchers in this area work to solve complex engineering problems, improve existing mechanical systems, and innovate in areas like robotics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials science. The goal is to advance knowledge and contribute to technological progress in industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in mechanical engineering research?

To thrive in Mechanical Engineering Research, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, advanced mathematics, and often a graduate degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like ANSYS or MATLAB, and experience with laboratory equipment are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and clear technical communication set outstanding researchers apart. These skills ensure rigorous, innovative research and effective collaboration, which are vital for advancing technology and solving complex engineering challenges.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in mechanical engineering research roles?

Mechanical engineering research professionals often encounter challenges such as balancing theoretical analysis with experimental validation, managing tight project timelines, and staying current with rapidly evolving technologies. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams is frequent, so strong communication skills are crucial for integrating input from different fields. Additionally, securing funding for research and publishing results in reputable journals can be competitive, requiring persistence and adaptability.

What is the difference between Mechanical Engineering Research vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectMechanical Engineering ResearchMechanical Design Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering; often requires research experienceBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering; focus on design skills
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, academic or corporate R&D centersDesign studios, manufacturing plants, engineering firms
Primary FocusDeveloping new theories, materials, or technologiesCreating and testing mechanical components and systems
Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, R&D departmentsProduct development, manufacturing, engineering consulting

Mechanical Engineering Research involves exploring new concepts and technologies in labs, often within academic or corporate R&D settings. In contrast, Mechanical Design Engineers focus on designing, prototyping, and refining mechanical systems for practical application. Both roles require a strong foundation in mechanical engineering but differ in their primary objectives and work environments.

How to become a researcher in mechanical engineering?

To become a researcher in mechanical engineering, typically a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field is required, followed by a master's or Ph.D. for advanced research roles. Developing strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical skills, along with experience in laboratory work and familiarity with engineering software, is essential for success in this field.

What do you do in mechanical engineering research?

Mechanical engineering research involves investigating and developing new technologies, materials, and systems related to mechanics, thermodynamics, and materials science. Researchers design experiments, analyze data, and use tools like CAD software and simulation programs to solve engineering problems and advance knowledge in the field.
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Mechanical Engineering Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineering Research job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,878 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

RESEARCH ENGINEER - SR. RESEARCH ENGINEER - Mechanical Designer/Engineer for Propulsion System

San Antonio, TX • On-site

Southwest Research Institute
Scientific Research and Development Services • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Southwest Research Instituteexternal

$68K - $92K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Key responsibilities

  • Support the design, analysis, and testing of systems and components used in propulsion and energy processes.

  • Provide mechanical and machine design support for applications including power generation, propulsion, and combustion, and develop or modify test rigs as needed.

  • Lead and coordinate technical work, troubleshoot tests and simulations, and guide the technical direction of other engineers and technicians.

Southwest Research Institute rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Who We Are:
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of gas turbine combustion, air-breathing propulsion, industrial heat and power, and liquid propulsion. Our technologies are powering a cleaner future and advancing state-of-the-art propulsion systems for air and space flight.
Objectives of this Role:
  • Support the design, analysis, and testing of systems and components used in a variety of propulsion and energy processes.
  • Typical application areas include: supercritical CO2 oxy-fuel combustion systems, gas turbine combustion systems, and launch vehicle components.
  • Apply principles of machine design, piping/pressure vessel design, process controls and instrumentation, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and heat transfer to develop test systems and specify components.
  • Many systems operate at extreme pressure and temperature conditions.
  • Apply knowledge of fabrication methods, assembly, and geometric dimensioning & tolerancing (GD&T) to ensure components are designed in a way that can be manufactured and assembled.
  • Utilize CAD software (Solidworks) to develop mechanical designs and visualize component fitments and assemblies.
  • Communicate ideas, results, and other information to coworkers as well as commercial and government clients.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:
  • Provide design, analytical, and experimental support to more than one project in a team environment.
  • Typical tasks include research, design, analysis, and simulation development. Use commercial engineering software such as ANSYS Workbench or APDL for design and analysis.
  • Provide mechanical and machine design support for a variety of applications that include power generation, propulsion, and combustion.
  • As needed, work across the Institute to draw on the experience from thousands of engineers and technicians.
  • Contribute and be responsible for technical development of experimental test programs, including developing/operating a new test rig.
  • Take responsibility for testing/rig modifications to meet new project objectives.
  • Direct the technical work of other engineers and technicians.
  • Assess the best approach to solve problems and interrogate results for reliability.
  • Provide troubleshooting support for tests and simulations with a firm understanding of theories and concepts using a first-principles approach.
  • Act as the primary technical lead for mechanical designs and guide technical direction of other engineers for projects/proposal efforts.
  • Be a problem solver that exercises creativity and independent judgement in determining approaches to solve a wide range of technical problems.

Requirements:
  • Requires a Bachelors, Masters or a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related engineering degree. 1 yr experience required with MS degree, 0 yr experience required with PhD in relevant areas.
  • 2-5 years: Mechanical design experience applying tools like FEA to predict component/assembly stresses and evaluate fitness for service.
  • 2-5 years: Design, commissioning, and testing experience with high pressure and/or extreme temperature (cryogenic or combustion) process systems.
  • 2-5 years: Experience with industry standards, such as ASME Pressure Vessel Code, ASME B31 Piping Codes, machine assembly, maintenance, and repair.
  • MS or PhD degrees in engineering are preferred, but not required.
  • A valid/clear driver's license is required.

Special Requirements:
Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Applicant must be a U.S. citizen.
Job Locations: San Antonio, Texas
For more information about this division, visit the Mechanical Engineering home page.
For benefits information at our San Antonio location, click here .
For benefits information at all other locations, click here .
An Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and veteran status.

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